Lunar review
A capable Mac monitor controller with automation, sensors, and a low one-time Pro price.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Lunar is a native macOS application for controlling external and Apple displays. It supports DDC hardware control for brightness, contrast, volume, and monitor inputs, with gamma-table fallback when DDC is unavailable. Its audience is Mac users who want more than manual display adjustments, particularly those managing multiple monitors or automating brightness changes through hotkeys, media keys, macOS Shortcuts, presets, or the command line.
The free plan covers a substantial set of controls: DDC monitor control, brightness, contrast and volume adjustment, input switching, command-line integration, and macOS Shortcuts. It is available indefinitely, while the 14-day free trial and Lunar Pro provide a path to the additional modes. The one-time Lunar Pro price is $23 USD and adds Sync Mode, Sensor Mode, Clock Mode, Location Mode, and unlimited manual adjustments. That structure makes Lunar suitable for users who need core monitor control without a recurring subscription, while Pro is more relevant to those who want synchronization, sensor-based behavior, or expanded adjustment limits.
Automation and multi-monitor management are the product’s clearest strengths. Ambient-light adaptation can use built-in or external sensors, and scheduled brightness and contrast changes support routines that do not depend on constant manual input. Home Assistant and macOS Shortcuts extend its platform fit, while the command-line interface supports more technical workflows. Compatibility remains tied to macOS, and DDC functionality or input switching depends on monitor firmware, cabling, and connection method. Mac users seeking display automation, sensor modes, and multi-monitor synchronization should find the feature set well aligned with those needs. Users on other platforms, or those whose displays do not support the relevant control methods, should choose another tool.
Lunar pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Free DDC control, input switching, and command-line integration
- Ambient-light adaptation with built-in or external sensors
- Shortcuts, scheduling, presets, and multi-monitor control
- Where it doesn't
- Supports macOS only
- DDC and input switching depend on monitor setup
- Advanced modes require the one-time Pro purchase
Lunar fact sheet, pricing and score →
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